Let the Children Come to Me

Mark 10:13-14

St. John’s United Church of Christ
Greeley, Colorado
June 7, 2026
Rev. Juvenal Cervantes

Today is an exciting day as we celebrate children and youth ministry at St. John’s! Children are precious to God. In a world that often measures people by their achievements, status, or influence, Jesus reminds us that every person has value in God's sight. The story of Jesus welcoming the children reveals His heart and teaches important lessons about faith, humility, and the Kingdom of God.

Consider God’s word:

"People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.'" (Mark 10:13-14)

I want to encourage you this morning and invite you to reflect on this question: “What is God’s attitude towards children and youth?”

We’ll learn four basic ideas from our text and

How these concepts are applied to our life today.

I. Jesus Welcomes the Children

The disciples thought they were protecting Jesus' time. They believed the children were not important enough to interrupt the Master's work. But Jesus saw things differently.

Jesus was not annoyed by the children. He was displeased with those who tried to keep them away. His words are clear: "Let the little children come to me."

This passage reminds us that no one is too small, too young, or too insignificant for God's attention. Jesus welcomes all who come to Him.

Application:
Children matter to God.
Families matter to God.
Every person matters to God.

The church should always be a place where children are welcomed, loved, taught, and encouraged in their faith.

II. Childlike Faith Is Precious to God

Jesus goes beyond welcoming children; He uses them as an example.

"Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." (Mark 10:15)

What is childlike faith?
Trusting rather than doubting.
Depending rather than pretending to be self-sufficient.
Receiving rather than earning.

A child understands dependence. Children know they need help. Jesus teaches that God's Kingdom is received as a gift, not achieved through human effort.

Application:

Many adults struggle because they want to earn God's favor. Yet salvation comes through faith, grace, and trust in Christ.

III. Do Not Hinder Others from Coming to Jesus

Jesus said, "Do not hinder them."

Sometimes barriers keep people from Christ:
Indifference
Judgmental attitudes
Neglect
Lack of spiritual guidance

As believers, we are called to remove obstacles, not create them.

Parents, grandparents, teachers, and church leaders have the privilege of helping children know Jesus. Our words, actions, and example can either encourage faith or discourage it.

Application:

Ask yourself:
Am I helping others come to Jesus?
Am I creating an environment where faith can grow?
Am I passing the gospel to the next generation?

IV. Jesus Blesses the Children

The passage concludes beautifully:

"And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them." (Mark 10:16)

Jesus did not merely tolerate the children; He embraced them and blessed them.

This picture reveals the loving heart of our Savior. He is compassionate, approachable, and full of grace.

The same Jesus who welcomed those children still welcomes people today.

No one is beyond His reach. No one is forgotten. His arms remain open to all who come to Him.

Conclusion

The message of this passage is simple and powerful:

Jesus welcomes children.
Childlike faith is the model for entering God's Kingdom.
We must never hinder others from coming to Christ.
Jesus blesses those who come to Him.

The invitation remains open today: "Let the little children come to me."

Whether young or old, rich or poor, strong or weak, Jesus invites us to come with humble, trusting hearts.

Let’s pray together:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the love Jesus showed to the children. Help us to have childlike faith that trusts You completely. Make our homes and churches places where children are welcomed and taught Your truth. Remove any barriers that keep people from coming to Christ, and help us lead others into Your loving arms. In Jesus' name, Amen.